Chattering teeth could be a seizure
Your dog’s teeth can chatter for a number of reasons. While this may look funny and amusing it may be wise that you check your dog is not suffering from more serious health problems.
Certain breeds of dog are more likely to suffer from chattering teeth due to a Multisystem neuronal degeneration. Breeds like Cocker Spaniels, Maltese and Bichon Frise are all much more likely to suffer from this disorder. This will not only cause the dog’s teeth to chatter but will also result in shaking all over the body. If your dog is displaying these signs then treatment at the vets is essential so they can receive anti seizure medication.
A dog that suddenly starts to chatter their teeth may be suffering with focal motor seizures, which can be referred to as partial seizures by others. The difference between this type of seizure and a full body seizure is that the dog will remain fully conscious. With only the face and mouth displaying any signs that something is wrong. Because of this, many people do not think that the chattering is related to a seizure disorder which is why it is always important to get them seen at the vets of this chattering occurs.
Some breeds of dogs are more prone to chatter their teeth than others. This could be due to a couple of reasons. Breeds like Chihuahuas, Italian greyhounds and Jack Russells are all reported to suffer from chattering teeth. It is unclear whether this is the dog displaying pure excitement or whether the fact that they have thin skin and short hair leads to a difficulty in keeping their temperature stable.
Dogs that are excited will sometimes chatter their teeth. It is most likely that it is a habit they have picked up from a young age. It is not always happy excitement that can cause dogs’ teeth to chatter it can also be a result of a dog being scared or something that a dog will do during mating.
To make sure that a health problem is not contributing to your dog’s teeth chattering, take your dog for an oral examination at the vets. Make sure that you monitor your dog’s mouth closely whether or not it has a problem to make sure that the teeth are not broken or cracked.
